NRA seeks 2010 Restaurant Neighbor Award nominations

March 29, 2010

More than nine of 10 restaurants are actively involved in community service activities, and the National Restaurant Association is now accepting applications to recognize their commitment with its 2010 Restaurant Neighbor Award. The annual award, given to restaurants that exemplify the industry's community support and philanthropic spirit, will recognize four national winners with $5,000 contributions to their charitable projects. The deadline to apply for the Award is June 11, 2010, and restaurants may apply online. "Providing nourishment, quality of life, opportunity and enjoyment, America's restaurants are not only good neighbors but important contributors to our nation's health and prosperity," said Dawn Sweeney, NRA president and CEO. "Restaurants support local youth activities, community health initiatives, national charities and neighborhood improvement projects. We created the Restaurant Neighbor Award to recognize these remarkable efforts and strongly encourage restaurants nationwide to share their stories with us."

Restaurants may apply on their own behalf, and employees, patrons and other members of the community may work with a local restaurant to apply for the award. The four national winners will be presented September in Washington, D.C. Both national and state winners will be recognized on the NRA Web site.

The Restaurant Neighbor Award honors charitable contributions in four categories (small business, mid-size business, large business/national chain, and Cornerstone Humanitarian). Each participating state restaurant association will select winners in their respective states that will be in the running for the national award..

The NRA and Restaurant Neighbor Award founding partner American Express developed the award to raise awareness about the restaurant industry's contributions in local communities across the country and to inspire other restaurant owners and operators to showcase their enormous contributions in their communities.